The likes of Manchester United and Arsenal may have a new face joining them on the pitch next season when Billericay referee Andy D'urso begins his first season officiating in the dizzy heights of the FA Carling Premiership.

Andy, who lives in Crays Hill, has received his call-up to the domestic top-flight after refereeing for nearly 20 years.

Since 1994, he has been adopting his "man in black" role in the Nationwide League but this week he got the news that he will have the chance of ruling proceedings at Chelsea's Stamford Bridge and treble-winning Manchester United's "Theatre of Dreams" - Old Trafford.

The 35-year-old, who began his refereeing career overseeing matches at Ryman and Conference level, admits that reaching the pinnacle of the English game is a dream come true.

He said: "This season there are 22 referees registered for Premiership action, so to get on the list is a real honour.

"I'm certainly looking forward to giving it my best shot."

Andy is a strong believer in letting a game flow and always endeavors to "play fair".

He revealed: "I always try to enjoy the game within the rules and if I don't have to resort to brandishing any cards and can keep 22 players on the field I am happy.

"Obviously I have to establish my authority on the game, otherwise you risk it getting out of hand, but normally a few choice words will be enough."

Andy is expecting to preside over 30 to 35 matches next season, including Worthington Cup and FA Cup ties, and he knows his fitness has to be first class.

"The pace of games in the top flight does not worry me," he said.

"Soccer has become quicker, more intense and more demanding over the past ten years and I think match officials have had little choice but to keep up with the changes.

"I regularly go to the gym, watch my diet and run to keep myself in peak condition and I relish a fast, flowing game anyway so I have no problem with the speed of the Premiership."

One question which has become poignant for referees over recent years is whether TV-backed evidence should be used at vital points in a game.

Andy is quick to blow the whistle on the overuse of technology in football, claiming it would bring a damaging stop/start element to the game, but he does support

Picture, top: Ready to rule - Andy D'urso.

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